Christchurch Gondola Ride

South Island

Christchurch Attractions

from

NZ$42

per adult

Gondola cabin overlooking Banks Peninsula and the turquoise waters of Lyttelton Harbour

Experiences

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch

Duration: 1-2 hours

Details

Discover the Magic of the Christchurch Gondola

The Christchurch Gondola Ride is one of the city’s most popular attractions, taking visitors on a scenic journey high above the landscape. As the gondola glides upward, the views open out to reveal the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a smooth and peaceful ride that offers a unique perspective of Canterbury’s natural beauty.

At the summit station, there’s plenty to explore beyond the views alone. Visitors can stretch their legs on walking tracks, uncover fascinating stories on the Christchurch Discovery Ride, or pick up gifts and keepsakes from the shop. The Red Rock Café also offers a welcoming spot to relax and enjoy refreshments while surrounded by panoramic scenery.

Christchurch Gondola Cabins: Comfort with a View

The gondola cabins offer a private experience for each group, with exclusive seating and unforgettable vistas in every season. The Christchurch Gondola departs from the Base Station in Heathcote Valley, where ample parking is available. The 10-minute ride takes you 862 metres up to the Summit Station on Mt Cavendish.

A trip on the gondola is more than just a ride; it’s a chance to pause and appreciate the incredible landscapes that define Christchurch. Whether visiting with family, friends, or as a solo traveller, the journey combines relaxation with adventure, making it a highlight of any stay in the region.

Gondola cabin arriving at summit station overlooking Lyttelton Harbour

Family enjoying the Time Tunnel ride at Christchurch Gondola, passing historical dioramas

Gondola descending from Port Hills with Christchurch city visible in the distance

Crater Rim Walkway sign with gondola and snowy mountains in background

View from the summit of the Christchurch Gondola looking across the Canterbury Plains

Two hikers walking near a Christchurch Gondola cabin with views of Lyttelton Harbour

Elevated view of Lyttelton township and harbour from Port Hills near Christchurch

Brochure showing walking tracks from Christchurch Gondola summit including Bridle Path and Cavendish Bluff

Yellow broom flowers in full bloom near the Christchurch Gondola on the Port Hills, with Lyttelton Harbour in the background.

Harbour and rolling hills seen from high up near the Christchurch Gondola ridge

OPEN HOURS: 10am-4pm daily. Last ride down 60 minutes after closing.

Age Information:

Adults: 16 years +
Children: 5-15 years
Infants: 4 years and under
Family Tickets: 2 adults and up to 3 children
All children must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Cancellation and Refunds

2 days or more: Full refund*
Between 2 days and 24 hours: 75% refund*
Within 24 hours/No Show: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Frequently asked questions

OPEN HOURS: 10am-4pm daily. Last ride down 60 minutes after closing.

The Christchurch Gondola is a 15-minute drive from central Christchurch, with free parking at the Base Station in Heathcote Valley.

Year-round transport is available via bus number 8 from the Christchurch Bus Interchange, near tram stops 5 and 8.

The Gondola Shuttle operates daily in summer. It costs NZ$15.00 return for an adult, and $7.50 return for a child (5-15yrs). One-way tickets are also available for NZ$7.50 for an adult or NZ$3.75 for a child. Any under 5's ride free. See timetable here. (Pricing is correct at the time of publishing and is subject to change without prior notice.)

The Christchurch Gondola ride usually lasts about 10 minutes, but at top speed, the journey can be completed in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds.

No, the Christchurch Tram doesn't go to the Gondola. The Gondola is about a 15-minute drive from the city centre. You can also reach it by taking public bus number 8 from the Christchurch Bus Interchange, which stops right at the Gondola Base Station.

Our base station is fully wheelchair accessible, and a wheelchair is available for guests to borrow from reception. The Gondola cabins can accommodate manual wheelchairs up to 600mm wide, which is the maximum width of the cabin doorway. At the summit station, an elevator allows wheelchair users easy access to the café, observatory, and function spaces. However, please note that the Christchurch Discovery Ride is not accessible for wheelchairs.